Treasures and Tales

When St. Anthony died in 356, he left behind just a tunic, some cloaks, and a wooden staff he used in the desert. Coptic tradition says he passed that staff to St. Macarius, his faithful disciple. Now believed to be kept at the Red Sea Monastery, monks call it a treasure filled with Anthony’s prayers. A Coptic story tells of a storm threatening the monastery—winds roaring, waves rising. A monk raised the staff, praying to Anthony, and the storm stopped, as if it met God’s peace. Monks say the staff sometimes glows with a holy light, showing Anthony’s still near.

Ethiopian stories add wonder, too. An old tale says St. Tekle Haymanot dreamed Anthony held his staff to calm wild beasts, keeping him safe. It’s not just a stick—it’s a holy staff, a piece of Anthony that carries God’s strength. For kids, it’s like a hero’s staff from an adventure tale: Anthony’s desert tool, now a heavenly helper, proving he’s always ready to protect and pray for us.